A PET/CT scan combines X-ray images from a CT scan with PET scan images. The PET scanner detects this radiation and produces images of the affected tissue. This substance is called a radiotracer.ĭiseased cells in your body absorb more of the radiotracer than healthy ones do. You receive an intravenous (IV) injection of a safe amount of a radioactive drug. PET scans detect diseased cells in organs and tissues. This new technology creates extremely high-contrast images and can primarily be used for diagnosing and monitoring cancers of the soft tissues (brain, head and neck, liver and pelvis).

Some hospitals now use a hybrid PET/MRI scan. This combination test produces 3D images that allow for a more accurate diagnosis. Your healthcare provider may perform a PET scan and CT scan at the same time (PET-CT). PET scan images can detect cellular changes in organs and tissues earlier than CT and MRI scans. PET scans use a radioactive tracer to show how an organ is functioning in real time. Both produce still images of organs and body structures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans use magnets and radio waves. How is a PET scan different from a CT or MRI scan?Ĭomputed tomography (CT) scans use X-rays.

Evaluate how well a treatment plan is working and help your healthcare provider adjust treatment, if needed.

Detect cancerous tumor cells to help gauge cancer spread (metastasis).

Identify organs and tissues that aren’t working as they should.

Measure vital functions, such as blood flow, oxygen use and blood sugar (glucose) metabolism.

Brain disorders, such as brain tumors, epilepsy, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Coronary artery disease, heart attack or other heart problems.

Cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer and thyroid cancer.

Your healthcare provider may order a PET scan to check for signs of: Why do healthcare providers use PET scans? The scanner detects diseased cells that absorb large amounts of the radiotracer, which indicates a potential health problem.

The test uses a safe injectable radioactive chemical called a radiotracer and a device called a PET scanner. A positron emission tomography (PET) scan produces images of your organs and tissues at work.

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